The Z That Started It All
When it comes to Japanese sports cars, the classic Datsun 240Z is considered the benchmark for the Nissan Z line. The long hood, short deck, and clean lines have held up better than most, even now. I’ve always had a soft spot for the 240Z’s shape – enough that I once told myself I’d build one from scratch if I ever had the budget for a true passion project.
This route means years spent tracking down parts, dealing with rust, and figuring out how much you want to be honest with its original form. Certain people love that process, but there’s another way: find a car that’s already been restored the right way.
That’s exactly what this 240Z is. MZR Roadsports in the UK took it through a full restoration and development program, with the goal of building a classic Z that feels at home on today’s roads.
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A Carefully Reworked Classic
It all starts with a clean 1973 shell from California, professionally converted to right-hand drive using genuine Nissan parts. The team stripped it down to bare metal, seam-sealed everything, and finished it in a custom color called MZR Heritage Green (not British Racing Green). The look is nothing showy and true to the era. Re-chromed bumpers, rare factory headlamp covers, and restored mirrors round out the exterior, keeping things authentic without going overboard.
Step inside and you’ll see the same balance of old and new. The original dashboard is still there, uncracked, with those classic cowled gauges front and center. But you also get modern touches like a Bluetooth head unit that looks period-correct, inertia-reel seatbelts, and full soundproofing. Black leather and velour seats, Wilton carpets, a Moto-Lita wheel, and a matching gear knob give the cabin a classic feel.
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New Heart Under the Hood
This restored 240Z is powered by a 2.8-liter inline-six engine, replacing the original 2.4-liter. It’s the kind of upgrade focusing on torque and drivability rather than headline numbers. Power goes through a reconditioned Nissan S13 five-speed manual and an AP Suretrac limited-slip diff with a 3.54:1 ratio, so you get quick response on twisty roads but still have relaxed cruising on the highway. The suspension has been brought up to date with Eibach springs, Tokico dampers, polyurethane bushings, and a stiffer anti-roll bar. Power steering means you won’t struggle with parking or tight turns.
Even better, since the rebuild, it’s only covered 5,500 miles. It’s currently listed on Piston Heads. The price? £79,950, or about $101,500, and it’s based in the UK, so you’ll need to factor in import costs. But if you’re after a classic Z that’s already sorted and ready to drive, this one is hard to ignore.
Piston Heads
Piston Heads
Piston Heads
Piston Heads
Piston Heads
Piston Heads
About the author
Jacob Oliva
Senior Editor, Autoblog